Cranford

Miss Matty’s Explanation of Her Choice

Miss Matty responds without reproach, explaining that her mind is not naturally strong and that working out what she ought to do in any given case is hard enough. She was grateful to have discerned her duty that morning when the poor man stood before her, but she finds it a strain to keep anticipating hypothetical situations. She prefers to wait and trust that she will be helped when the moment comes, adding that unlike her sister Deborah, she would have managed the situation differently had Deborah lived.

Strained Cheerfulness and Engagement Discussion

After tea, the women take up their work with forced cheerfulness that gradually becomes real, and they discuss Lady Glenmire’s engagement. Miss Matty begins to think it a good thing, acknowledging that men can be troublesome in a house but bring useful knowledge of how to act in difficulties. She reasons that Lady Glenmire will have a settled home among pleasant people and notes that Mr Hoggins, though not polished in manners, may yet be true and tender. Miss Matty then drifts into a soft reverie about Mr Holbrook while the narrator busily matures a plan.

Miss Matty’s Account Book Review

Before the tea conversation, Miss Matty unlocks her desk and reviews her account books with a puzzled brow. Too penitent over her earlier remark to presume she could help, the narrator leaves her alone. Miss Matty eventually shuts the book, locks the desk, and draws her chair to the narrator’s. In forced composure, she reveals that if the bank fails she will lose one hundred and forty-nine pounds thirteen shillings and fourpence a year, leaving her only thirteen pounds. Her fingers work convulsively as she admits she is glad poor Deborah has been spared this downfall, since Deborah’s lofty spirit could not have borne coming down in the world.